This Week in the NHL

After an embarrassing 2-8-1 start, the Caps have climbed their way to a Southeast Division title and a playoff berth for the sixth consecutive season. As they have won 10 of their last 11 games, they are among the hottest teams heading into the post season with at the No. 3 seed.

Graphic by Kristi Chan/Old Gold & Black

It’s hard to believe that this team was next-to-last in the Eastern Conference as recent as March 21. If the Caps can topple the Senators and Bruins in their final two games, they will have closed the season winning 16 out of 20.

Islanders and Blues Clinch Playoff Berth

For the first time since 2007, the New York Islanders are heading to the post season. Despite a shootout loss to the Hurricanes, the Islanders were able to secure their playoff spot as the Winnipeg Jets lost. With John Tavares at the helm, the Islanders are looking to extend their success.

Chris Steward reached career totals of 100 goals and 100 assists in the process of the St. Louis Blues punching their ticket to the post season. It is the second consecutive season the Blues will make a playoff appearance as they currently sit at fifth place in the Western Conference.

Teams of the Week

Montreal Canadiens- The Canadiens have been in a free fall lately losing five of their last six. As they continue to battle with the Bruins for the top spot in the Northeast, it will be critical for the Canadiens to get back on track. After losing three in a row earlier in the season, the Canadiens went on to string together five in a row and they will look to have the same type of response heading into the playoffs.

Minnesota Wild- The Wild won its fifth game since their seven game winning streak that ended on March 7. Despite the slide, they still have an opportunity to hang onto their playoff position. With key games coming up against the Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche, the Wild will look to book their spot in the playoffs.